Written by Juan Cabrera

What are idioms?

Study.com defines an ‘idiom’ as an expression that takes on a figurative meaning when certain words are combined, which is different from the literal definition of the individual words.

You can start 2020 by using the following idioms, and, at the same time, set goals for yourself!

Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

When you try something new and different, it can become a great experience for you even though it was risky, or you were afraid to do it.

This idiom can be used as a motivator to find new passions, paths, or experiences. Things will not improve or change if you don’t take on new challenges.

An example of this idiom in a sentence sounds like this: “I want to learn a new language, so I will take classes or even travel to a country where the language is spoken. If I don’t take the first step, I am not going to learn it because nothing ventured, nothing gained”.

To Turn Over a New Leaf

Have you ever felt that it’s time for a change and leave negativity behind? Well, this idiom is a great way to express new beginnings.

Using this idiom means to turn the negative things into positive situations in your life. There might be periods in your life that you want to change and move on, so this idiom is appropriate to use for those occasions.

An example of this idiom in a sentence sounds like this: “Angela feels bored at her job and wants to accomplish more, so she decided to turn over a new leaf and look for a better job next year.”

Out with the Old, In with the New

Many people have New Years resolutions that they want to accomplish from January on. Sometimes this means to get rid of old habits and start new ones.

Out with the old, in with the new is a perfect idiom to use when you have those goals for the new year, and you want to leave the old, bad ways in the past. Use this idiom when telling people all the great things you are about to embark upon in 2020.

An example of this idiom in a sentence sounds like this: “I want to be healthy, I want to feel better, I want to have more energy. Out with the old, in with the new -I will watch less TV and start doing yoga at the park.”

Reflection

In the ELI Special Programs office, we want to invite you to reach new horizons and dream big. We believe that when you set goals for yourself, make a plan to accomplish them, and look for the right resources, you are able to find beautiful experiences, professional and personal development, satisfaction in achievement, and more importantly, happiness.

If one of your goals is to learn or practice English, meet people from around the world, have a new, life-changing experience, or grow academically, professionally and personally, the ELI Special Programs office will be more than happy to help you! Do not hesitate to contact us to know how you can come with a dream and leave with a vision.